The Best Live Chat Software for Small Businesses

On February 25, 2026 By newsroom Topic: Online Business Success

Live chat software is essential for businesses aiming to improve customer service, drive sales, and enhance engagement. Here’s a detailed overview of the top live chat tools, their features, pricing, and tips for choosing the right one for your business.

FAQs

Can I build my live chat tool?
Yes! Platforms like ChatBot let you build custom tools with drag-and-drop systems, even without coding knowledge.
Is it easy to set up live chat on my site?
Absolutely! Integrate live chat code, configure triggers, and add team members in minutes.
Can I initiate conversations with visitors?
Yes, most tools allow proactive chats based on visitor behavior.
Should I choose a free live chat tool?
Free tools work for basic needs, but advanced features often require paid plans.

Top 10 Live Chat Tools for Small Businesses

1. LiveChat – Complete Visibility

Key Features:
Customizable themes, ticketing system, geolocation-based routing, performance metrics.
Pricing:
Starter: $20/month.
Team: $41/month.
Business: $59/month.
Enterprise: Custom pricing.
Best For: Targeted messaging and tracking.

2. ChatBot – Create Your Live Chat

Key Features:
Drag-and-drop bot builder, pre-made templates, WooCommerce/WordPress integrations.
Pricing:
Starter: $52/month.
Team: $142/month.
Business: $424/month.
Enterprise: Custom pricing.
Best For: Automated 24/7 customer service.

3. Freshchat – Blends AI and Human Intelligence

Key Features:
AI chatbots, intelligent routing, proactive engagement, NLP/ML-powered insights.
Pricing:
Free: Limited features.
Growth: $15/month.
Pro: $39/month.
Enterprise: $69/month.
Best For: AI-powered interactions with high engagement.

4. Olark – Easy to Use

Key Features:
In-browser chat, canned responses, lead tracking, real-time reporting.
Pricing:
Free: Limited to 20 chats/month.
Olark Standard: $19/agent/month.
Olark Pro: Custom pricing.
Best For: Small teams needing simplicity.

5. Smartsupp – Google Analytics Integration

Key Features:
Chatbots, video recording, GDPR compliance, API customization.
Pricing:
Free: Limited features.
Standard: $19.50/month.
Pro: $48/month.
Ultimate: Custom pricing.
Best For: Data-driven insights with seamless Google integration.

6. Velaro – Excellent Routing Systems

Key Features:
Advanced chat routing, push page capability, automation, performance tracking.
Pricing:
Small Business: $64.95/month.
Professional: $149.95/month.
Enterprise: Custom pricing.
Best For: Businesses needing advanced chat routing.

7. Intercom – Easy Data Import/Export

Key Features:
Lead Qualification Bot, engagement tools, multilingual support, custom messenger.
Pricing:
Starter: $74/month.
Early Stage Program: $65/month.
Best For: Startups and data-driven lead generation.

8. HubSpot – Fantastic Free Version

Key Features:
Integrated CRM, automation, branding customization, free chatbot builder.
Pricing:
Free: Basic features.
Starter: $45/month.
Professional: $800/month.
Enterprise: $3,600/month.
Best For: Marketing and sales teams.

9. Pipedrive – Top-Notch Reporting System

Key Features:
Workflow automation, pipeline visualization, activity reminders.
Pricing:
Essential: $9.90/month.
Advanced: $19.90/month.
Professional: $39.90/month.
Best For: Businesses prioritizing sales tracking and reporting.

10. Tidio – Impressive Templates

Key Features:
AI chatbots, 40+ templates, multi-language support, live visitor tracking.
Pricing:
Free: Limited features.
Communicator: $15.83/month.
Chatbots: $32.50/month.
Tidio+: $240.83/month.
Best For: Automated responses with impressive template options.

How to Choose the Best Live Chat Tool

Understand Your Needs:
Small teamChoose a simple tool.
Heavy trafficOpt for automation with chatbots.
Consider Key Features:
Must-Have: Routing, customer tracking, canned responses, mobile optimization.
Nice-to-Have: Smart triggers, advanced reporting, multilingual support.
Look at Integrations:
Ensure compatibility with CRM, marketing tools, or help desk software.
Evaluate Pricing:
Compare features-to-price ratio. Avoid overpaying for unnecessary functionalities.
Agent or Bot-Based Solution:
Agents for personalized service, bots for handling repetitive queries.

Best Tools Based on Use Case

Best for Marketing/Sales Teams: HubSpot – $45/month.
Best for Startups: Intercom – $74/month.
Best for Targeted Messaging: LiveChat – $20/month.

Summing it up

Whether you’re a startup or an established business, choosing the right live chat tool can significantly enhance customer experience. Assess your needs, evaluate features, and select a tool that aligns with your goals and budget. For sales-driven teams, HubSpot and LiveChat are excellent choices, while Tidio and ChatBot shine in automation.